Jonathan urges Nigerians to love each other

President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday urged Nigerians to demonstrate unfailing love for the country notwithstanding the current challenges confronting the nation.

Jonathan said this at the inauguration and opening ceremony of the Cathedral Metropolitan Church of Christ in Lagos.

He said for Nigeria to be a better place, there should be collective efforts of every individual and the communities.

``I appreciate all for giving me the opportunity. I thank all Nigeria for what they are doing for the country. Because of the intercessory prayers, the country is stabilised,” he said.

The president said transformation could not be effective without passing through challenges.

According to him, Nigerians should be rest assured that whatever challenges we are experiencing now, there is always hope at the end of the tunnel.

``When we work hard, we will take our country where we want it to be,’’ he said and urged Nigerian youths not to relent in working with the government for the betterment of the country.

``Nigerian youths, we reassured you that we will continue to work together, do our best for the country as a nation. When we work together, we will overcome the challenges in the country.

Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair, said for total transformation to take place, Nigerians should work hard and see themselves as one and do away with religious differences.

Blair said that Nigeria is a country endowed with great potential, hence, the need for total transformation.

``Nigeria should be hopeful because of its people. Nigeria will be built by the strength and dedication of Nigerians. There is no progress in the midst of violence,” Blair said.

He urged the Federal Government to put opportunities in the hands of many not few, and appealed to Nigerians and religious bodies to tolerate one another and give room for religious reconciliation.

Rev. Paul Adefarasin, the Senior Pastor of the Church, said there was hope for Nigeria in spite of the challenges ravaging the country.

Mr Labaran Maku, the Minister of Information, Olusegun Aganga, Minister of Trade and Investment, Mike Okonkwo, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Evangelical Mission and others graced the occasion.

-------Augustine Aminu/Daily Times